Strategic plan Government of Alberta 2021-24
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
BUDGET 2021 Strategic plan Government of Alberta 2021–24
ISBN 978-1-4601-4712-2 (Print) ISBN 978-1-4601-4713-9 (Online) ISSN 2369-0119 (Print) ISSN 2369-0127 (Online) Copyright © 2021 alberta.ca 2 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24
Contents Premier’s message....................................................................................................................................4 Vision..........................................................................................................................................................5 Three key priorities....................................................................................................................................6 Priority one | Protecting lives....................................................................................................................8 Objectives...................................................................................................................................................8 Indicators.................................................................................................................................................. 11 Priority two | Protecting livelihoods........................................................................................................ 12 Objectives................................................................................................................................................. 12 Indicators.................................................................................................................................................. 17 Priority three | Fiscal accountability....................................................................................................... 18 Objectives................................................................................................................................................. 18 Indicators..................................................................................................................................................20 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 3
Premier’s Message
Alberta has always been known for the resilience of the people who call it home. Albertans
embrace the values of independence, hard work, and strength in the face of obstacles.
Time and again, that strength has been tested. Be it the economic hardships of the Great
Depression or the National Energy Program, the human tragedies of the recent Fort McMurray
fires or High River floods, or the physical, mental and financial effects of the current global
pandemic, Albertans persevere.
The last year presented challenges like no other. Yet even as we dealt with COVID-19,
the sustained downturn of the energy sector and a global economic recession, Alberta’s
government continued to make progress on our plan for jobs, investment, and economic
recovery. And we did this while providing necessary supports for the people and businesses
struggling under the weight of the global pandemic. Alberta’s government has focused entirely
on protecting lives and livelihoods and our 2021-2024 Strategic Plan will make sure that work
continues.
This Strategic Plan continues to support Albertans as we work together to defeat COVID-19 and
get back to living our lives, supporting our families, and running our businesses. It implements
Alberta’s Economic Recovery Plan, a bold strategy to broaden our economy, build and create
new jobs. And it continues our work to make life better for all Albertans – in both good times
and bad, by focusing on three priorities.
First, we are protecting lives by investing in health care and the fight against COVID-19. Building
on our $1.7 billion response to COVID-19 last year, we will again provide record funding to the
health care system. Our plan also seeks more efficient ways to deliver programs and services
so we can support vulnerable Albertans, and all Albertans can count on the services they rely
on, like health and education.
Second, we are protecting livelihoods by strengthening our focus on creating jobs now to help
the economy recover. This includes attracting new investors by having the most competitive
tax regime in Canada, while at the same time helping our small and medium businesses keep
their doors open during the pandemic. Our work includes diversifying our economy by investing
in new and emerging sectors, but also protecting key, core industries. And, of course, we will
always stand up for Alberta, fighting for fairness and market access.
Finally, Alberta is being careful with our spending so we can continue to provide core programs
and services. This includes bringing spending and public sector compensation in line with
similar provinces so that we can make needed investments in health care and job creation. We
will continue to find efficiencies across all government operations and spend within our means
so we protect the health of Alberta’s finances.
Albertans elected this government to lead our province through good times and bad. We’ve had
a tough year, but I have every confidence that working together, we will emerge from this crisis
stronger and more prosperous than ever.
Best regards,
Jason Kenney
4 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Vision
Alberta is home to an abundance of resources and natural beauty.
It is home to hard-working and innovative people who are resilient,
entrepreneurial and enterprising. We have endured the impact
of multiple global crises in recent years, including the COVID-19
pandemic and economic recession, and it is our consistent
determination to adapt and succeed that helps us to overcome
these challenges. By making strategic investments that advance key
economic sectors, reducing red tape to save time and money for
Albertans and Alberta businesses, and eliminating barriers for job
creators, Alberta’s Government is committed to growing the economy
so that all Albertans share in our future prosperity.
By attracting and supporting investment and private sector
growth, we will drive further diversification and enhance our overall
competitiveness, making us the freest and fastest moving economy
in North America. The government will promote Alberta’s energy
interests, working with industry, our federal and provincial counterparts
and others to secure Alberta’s position as a global supplier of safe,
reliable and environmentally responsible energy products. Finally,
by investing in vital infrastructure—roads, schools and hospitals—
the government will get Albertans working again and build a strong
foundation that supports long-term economic growth.
These efforts will support a revitalized, vibrant private sector that gives
meaningful work and fair pay to citizens across the province. Economic
growth and a strong private sector are vital for government to continue
to protect healthcare, social services, education, and supports for
Albertans who need them the most. We are increasing spending on
healthcare and maintaining spending on education, while undertaking
the transformational change necessary to achieve a strong fiscal
foundation. We are ensuring that Albertans receive high quality and
sustainable services now and into the future.
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 5Three key priorities One | Protecting lives This government has supported Albertans throughout the COVID-19 pandemic by providing world-class healthcare, and choices for education, childcare and housing that met Albertans’ immediate needs during this crisis. Alberta’s Government is also providing financial supports for small and medium-sized businesses impacted by the pandemic restrictions that were necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. Making life better for Albertans also means modernizing government services and undertaking the transformational changes necessary to ensure the quality and effectiveness of vital public services that Albertans rely on such as healthcare and education. It also means ensuring the necessary supports are provided to those who need them now and in the future. This includes identifying and eliminating unnecessary red tape burdens, making it easier for Albertans to thrive. Two | Protecting livelihoods Jobs and growth are the defining mandate of this government. Alberta is now the most tax-competitive business jurisdiction in Canada and is among the most attractive investment destinations in North America. By attracting investment, supporting diversification in established and emerging economic sectors, and eliminating barriers to doing business, Alberta’s Government will continue to support economic recovery and stimulate job creation. Private sector growth has never been more important which is why Alberta’s Government is providing financial supports for small and medium-sized businesses impacted by the pandemic restrictions, necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19, to ensure they continue to be there for their employees and customers. We remain focused on identifying and eliminating unnecessary red tape that stifles job creators and economic growth. Alberta’s Government remains committed to protecting our key industries and securing a fair deal for Alberta. This includes an ongoing commitment to fighting for Alberta’s responsible energy industry and the jobs and prosperity it creates in Alberta and across the country. Key to this is the expansion of pipeline capacity, which reduces the need for less secure and higher emitting truck and rail transport. We will continue to call on the federal government to press the United States to discuss energy supply and climate action. This government will continue to stand up for Albertans, and challenge the federal government on its unilateral approach to fiscal stabilization, the carbon tax, and added regulatory measures that impact investment in Canada. Securing a fair deal for Alberta will increase investment and new businesses to our province, and result in more jobs for Albertans. Three | Fiscal accountability As a result of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this government is on track for historic levels of spending on healthcare, community and social services, continuing care supports, mental health funding, seniors’ benefits and family supports. This spending is essential for keeping our economy open and Albertans safe during the global pandemic. However, this is not sustainable. Even before the pandemic, overall government spending per capita was significantly higher in Alberta than the Canadian average, and our public sector compensation continues to be greater than that of other provinces. This government will find ways to deliver services more efficiently, while supporting one of our three fiscal anchors of bringing spending in Alberta in line with other comparator provinces. Spending carefully is critical to reducing government debt and preventing interest costs from consuming funds that are needed for vital government services. As the economy recovers and the private sector rebuilds, government will get out of the way and will be back on track for a sustainable level of spending. 6 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24
Three key priorities
1.
Protecting lives
2.
Protecting livelihoods
3.
Fiscal accountability
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 7Priority one
Protecting lives
Our objectives Objective one
Delivering cost effective, sustainable, client-
Alberta’s government is responding to the COVID-19
centred healthcare to all Albertans
pandemic by protecting lives with measures to bend the
curve and supporting Alberta’s healthcare system. Government will implement key recommendations from the
Alberta Health Services (AHS) review as a foundation for
Government is responsible for ensuring Albertans have improved care and better healthcare outcomes.
access to high quality services and supports such as
healthcare, education, public safety, affordable housing, and Actions
support for the vulnerable and marginalized. • Continue to deliver a timely, coordinated response to
the COVID-19 pandemic, including effective and efficient
1. Delivering cost effective, sustainable, client-centred distribution of COVID-19 vaccines as they are received from
healthcare to all Albertans the federal government.
2. Providing quality education and skills development to • Clear patient surgeries, delayed due to COVID-19,
Albertans and going forward, reduce wait times for medically
3. Supporting Albertans most in need necessary, publicly funded diagnostic imaging and surgical
4. Enhancing the justice system to make it fairer, faster and procedures. This will increase the operational efficiency
more effective of AHS while delivering reduced surgical wait times and
5. Building better communities increased capacity in hospitals and surgical facilities.
6. Partnering with Indigenous Peoples to pursue • Invest $140 million over four years to increase access to
opportunities services, expand programs and establish new publicly
funded addiction and mental health treatment spaces,
which will support over 4,000 Albertans in their journey to
recovery.
• Implement the recommendations of the Mental Health and
Addiction Advisory Council to increase access to recovery-
oriented addiction and mental health services, while
investing $40 million to respond to the opioid crisis and
support treatment and recovery services.
• Promote and improve safe, quality, health services ensuring
the needs of patients, their family members and caregivers
are met through evidence-based improvements to care
delivery. Client-centred services create opportunities for
shared decision making between patients, their families
and those delivering health care services.
8 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Objective two Objective three
Providing quality education and skills Supporting Albertans most in need
development to Albertans Alberta’s Government will protect Albertans most in need
Alberta’s government will work with parents, teachers, with legislation and increased funding for specialized law
superintendents and trustees to make Alberta’s schools enforcement agencies that combat domestic violence and
excellent places for our children to learn. The government human trafficking, as well as supporting low-income seniors
will maintain spending for the K-12 education system and and Albertans with disabilities.
continue to build post-secondary education as the foundation
of a strong Alberta economy and a vibrant province. This Actions
government is working to facilitate the transition for students • Protect individuals at risk of human trafficking, empower
between secondary education and post-secondary education survivors of trafficking, and provide new remedies to deal
to secure their future participation in the labour market. with traffickers.
Actions • Implement the Disclosure to Protect Against Domestic
Violence (Clare’s Law) Act to allow Albertans at risk of
• Implement new curriculum, including a validation process domestic violence to obtain police information on an
with volunteer school authorities to gather feedback. intimate partner’s previous history of domestic violence or
• Enhance financial literacy for students in grades 3-12 in violent acts.
Alberta’s classrooms, through grant partnerships that will • Support seniors with low income most in need; promote
support student learning of the important financial literacy healthy aging in seniors’ chosen communities; and work
skills they will need to manage their money and invest for with other ministries, other orders of government, and
their future. civil society organizations to achieve better outcomes for
• Work with school authorities to implement updated Alberta seniors.
planning and reporting requirements. • Build on successful partnerships, creating employment
• Continue to assess the impact of the pandemic on K-12 opportunities for Albertans with disabilities.
students to help address learning delays some students • Expand civil society’s capacity to address social challenges
may have experienced as a result of transitioning to virtual for Albertans through the Civil Society Fund.
learning environments.
• Modernize provincial student assessment by developing
and expanding online assessment capabilities.
• Strengthen the alignment of post-secondary programs to
employment. Meet Albertans’ skills development needs to
support their transition to the labour market by expanding
work-integrated learning opportunities in post-secondary
programs.
• Improve supports for youth transitioning from government
care into adulthood, focusing on mentoring, educational
attainment, employment readiness and connection to
support services to secure their success.
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 9Priority one
Protecting lives
Objective four Objective five
Make the justice system fairer, faster and more Building better communities
effective Alberta’s Government will support and fund local services
Albertans deserve a justice system that protects them and and projects, ensure the availability of more affordable
their loved ones. This government will protect Albertans by housing and support creative industries.
making the justice system fairer, faster, and more effective.
Actions
Actions • Strengthen municipal accountability and processes in the
• Hire additional Crown prosecutors to ensure criminal areas of assessment, compensation, land planning, and
matters are dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner. other matters that impact Albertans and the municipalities
in which they live. This includes supporting the Alberta
• Continue to improve law enforcement’s rural crime
Municipalities Measurement Index, which gives the
response capability through the Rural Alberta Provincial
public direct access to information detailing municipal
Integrated Defence Response (the RAPID Response), which
performance.
will allow provincial peace officers to better respond to, and
assist the RCMP and other police services. • Transform the affordable housing system through the
creation of affordable housing and real estate asset
• Continue reviewing options for delivering policing services
management strategic plans, including consideration of the
in the province, including the feasibility of a provincial
government accepted Affordable Housing Review Panel
police force, with the objective of improving the safety and
recommendations, to improve the value of government
security of Albertans and their property.
spending, increase affordable housing supply, and support
• Provide Albertans with improved digital access to justice better housing outcomes for Albertans.
services and promote system sustainability.
• Support multiculturalism, diversity and inclusion through
programs and policies that promote a society in which
Albertans feel their culture, heritage, language, sexual
orientation and gender are valued, respected and
supported.
• Build the resiliency of artists and non-profit organizations by
establishing a Creative Partnerships Alberta program that
will foster cross-sectoral partnerships, support investment
readiness, and unlock private capital.
• In response to COVID-19, implement the Stabilize Program
to support the continued operation and re-opening of live
experience presenting and performing arts, sport, and
rodeo organizations.
10 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Indicators | Protecting lives
Objective six
Partnering with Indigenous Peoples to pursue
opportunities
EDUCATION
The government will partner with Indigenous Peoples in
High school completion rate
Alberta in pursuit of reconciliation, inclusion, opportunity
Last actual: In 2018-19 84.9 per cent of students
and community well-being. We will strive to remove barriers completed high school within five years of
to new revenue streams that can help Indigenous leaders entering Grade 10.
develop the social and economic programs their communities
need.
Actions
• Work with the federal government to improve access for
Indigenous Peoples to key services such as education
and health care and advocate for on-reserve services for
persons with disabilities, addiction and/or mental health
issues.
PUBLIC SAFETY
• Provide oversight to the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities
Corporation (AIOC) to facilitate investment by Indigenous Property crime and violent crime
Last actual: Violent Crime rate increased 10 per cent
groups in natural resource projects and related
and property crime rate by 11.7 per cent over the
infrastructure. The government-appointed board will set past five years.
the AIOC’s strategic direction, oversee management of the
AIOC’s business and make investment support decisions
that help to flow money back into Indigenous communities.
• Advocate for a federal Aboriginal consultation process
that provides clear timelines and legal certainty for project
proponents and indigenous communities.
HEALTH
Unplanned readmissions to hospital
Last actual: In 2019-20, 13.5 per cent of medical
patients had an unplanned readmission to hospital
within 30 days of discharge.
Provincial per capita spending on health care
Last actual: The 2019-20 forecast for nominal provincial
per capita spending on health care is: Total – Nominal:
$5,151 (second highest of the provinces)
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 11Priority two
Protecting livelihoods
Our objectives Alberta has been the biggest contributor to Canada’s
economic growth and success in recent decades, and a
Protecting Albertans from the health and financial effects
driver of job creation. Albertans have contributed more than
of COVID-19 will continue to be the top priority of this
$600 billion through transfers to the rest of Canada to support
government until mass vaccination has been achieved and
many programs and initiatives in other provinces, including
the virus is contained. We are continuing with a balanced
construction of roads, schools, and hospitals. Wealth from
approach to the pandemic that protects lives, while getting
Alberta’s oil and gas sector has been a key factor in an
Albertans working again through supports to businesses
improved standard of living for all Canadians. That is why this
impacted by the necessary health restrictions, and creating
government continues to call on the federal government to
an environment that attracts investment and supports
protect Canada’s economic interests. Alberta will continue to
private sector job creation. We have also accelerated the
challenge the federal government to seek a fair deal for itself
plan to make Alberta the most tax competitive jurisdiction
on stabilization, protect our key industries, and fight against
for businesses in Canada and among the most attractive
a carbon tax that hits Albertans the hardest. We will work to
investment destinations in North America.
make Alberta the best place to invest and create jobs.
Alberta’s Recovery Plan takes bold action to create jobs that
get people back to work, build infrastructure and diversify 1. Building on our province’s strengths by growing key and
our economy. We are building on our economic strengths emerging sectors, and ensuring greater pipeline access
to support and attract investment in Alberta’s principal and 2. Reducing red tape
enabling sectors and position our province for economic 3. Lowering tax rates and providing incentives that stimulate
growth. Further, this government is committed to a smart employment, grow the economy and attract investment
approach to innovation, keeping our existing economy
4. Building public infrastructure
competitive and making Alberta a magnet for investment in
5. Making Alberta more dynamic, innovative and
new technologies and economic diversification, while further
sustainable
eliminating red tape to support job creators.
6. Standing up for Alberta’s natural resources
7. A fair deal for Alberta
12 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Objective one • Support Albertans to get back to work through grants to
Building on our province’s strengths by growing employers, reducing job creators’ cost to hire and train new
key and emerging sectors, and ensuring greater workers and giving Albertans employment opportunities in
pipeline access a growing and diverse economy. One-third of the funding
will be spent in 2020-21 and the other two-thirds in 2021-
The province is focused on building on our strengths and
22. The Government of Canada, through the Workforce
restoring investor confidence in our established and emerging
Development Agreement, provides some of the funding for
sectors that hold the greatest potential for growth and job
this grant program.
creation, and that are fundamental to our economic recovery.
These sectors include: energy; agriculture and forestry; • Improve market access for Alberta’s energy resources and
tourism; finance and fintech; aviation, aerospace and logistics; products to get Alberta’s oil and gas to market and support
and technology and innovation. Building on our competitive Alberta’s economic recovery.
advantage in these sectors will support growth in other • Continue to invest in job creation through environmental
high-opportunity sectors such as value-added petrochemical stewardship by providing support to site rehabilitation and
manufacturing, mineral resource development, including rare orphan wells.
earth minerals, and pharmaceuticals.
• Implement the natural gas strategy and vision, including
This government will continue to fight for Alberta’s responsible capitalizing on opportunities in liquefied natural gas and
energy industry, including all pipeline projects that enhance petrochemical manufacturing, and creating conditions for
market access for Alberta’s oil and gas. development of emerging opportunities like hydrogen and
the plastics circular economy.
Actions • Implement immediate recovery supports for Alberta’s
• Continue to implement Alberta’s Recovery Plan, launched tourism sector, and develop and implement a 10-year
in 2020, which was developed with input from Alberta’s Tourism Strategy with Travel Alberta to position the sector
Economic Recovery Council, and is a long-term strategy to to grow and diversify.
build, diversify, and create jobs. • Ensure long-term access to a sustainable and secure
• Continue to implement Alberta’s Investment and Growth fibre supply by implementing the Forest Jobs Action Plan,
Strategy, focusing the province’s investment attraction and attract investment and increase value-added product
activities on the established and emerging sectors of development to support the Agri-food Sector Investment
energy, agriculture, tourism, finance and fintech, aerospace, and Growth Strategy.
aviation and logistics, and technology and innovation, and • Increase the Agriculture Financial Services Corporation
expanding the province’s investment attraction presence (AFSC) borrowing limit to $3.6 billion by 2024 to ensure
globally. primary producers, agribusinesses, and value-added agri-
processors have reliable access to capital.
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 13Priority two
Protecting livelihoods
Objective two • Solicit public and industry input for opportunities to cut
Reducing red tape unnecessary red tape through the online web portal
CutRedTape.alberta.ca.
Alberta’s Government is reducing unnecessary red tape to
make Alberta one of the freest and fastest-moving economies • Support job creators by developing a regulatory system
in North America. The principles of the Red Tape Reduction that encourages further private sector investment in oil and
Act support the work of cutting unnecessary red tape by gas, and new investment in geothermal energy, leveraging
one-third by 2023, removing regulatory barriers for Alberta job Alberta’s natural advantages in these areas; including the
creators, and reducing unnecessary costs while maintaining development and implementation of a minerals strategy.
consumer, environmental, health and safety protections, • Increase the effectiveness of Alberta’s environmental
and fiscal accountability. In 2021, the Canadian federation approval and compliance processes while reducing
of Independent Business (CFIB) awarded Alberta an A for administrative, regulatory and process burdens. This will
its success in reducing red tape, recognizing Alberta as the be achieved by developing and implementing an integrated
most improved province in Canada. To date, the government regulatory assurance framework that is supported with
has saved Albertans more than $476 million by eliminating streamlined regulatory business processes.
thousands of unnecessary regulatory requirements.
• Continue modernizing Alberta’s liquor, gaming and
Actions cannabis sectors through reviews of the Gaming, Liquor
and Cannabis Act, its supporting Regulation, Alberta
• Continue the ongoing work of nine red tape reduction
Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) Handbooks, and
industry panels focused on key sectors that include oil
consultation with key stakeholders. AGLC has already
and gas; agricultural, food, and bio-industrial; chemical
achieved a 24 per cent reduction in red tape requirements,
manufacturing; forestry; hospitality and tourism; industrial
expanding opportunities for Alberta businesses and giving
manufacturing; construction; small business; and non-profit
consumers more choice.
to identify high impact areas to reduce or eliminate red
tape. • Through ongoing review of the Municipal Government
Act, reduce regulatory burden and streamline provisions
• Focus efforts to reduce red tape by getting out of the
hampering administrative efficiencies for municipalities,
way of job creators; removing duplicative provincial
citizens, businesses and industry.
requirements; implementing smarter regulations where the
outcome is prescribed rather than the means by which • Implement the new Early Learning and Child Care Act and
it must be achieved; implementing digital solutions to supporting regulation to modernize licensing processes
improve interactions with government; removing excessive and empower child care operators to provide high-quality
or unnecessary regulatory requirements and oversight; and early childhood education and care to meet the needs of
improving service delivery. working parents.
14 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Objective three Objective four
Lowering tax rates and providing incentives that Building public infrastructure
stimulate employment, grow the economy and This government will focus on infrastructure investments that
attract investment support key public services such as health and education to
The Job Creation Tax Cut lowered the corporate tax rate meet the needs of future generations. Infrastructure projects
from 12 per cent to eight per cent making it the lowest in the will be prioritized to increase the economy’s productive
country, attracting investment and creating thousands of jobs capacity, lower the cost of doing business and encourage
in Alberta. A continued emphasis on reducing the tax burden new private investment in the province.
for Albertans is crucial to supporting economic growth and
recovery in the province. Actions
• Prioritize infrastructure projects that will promote
Actions economic growth and recovery, create jobs, support
opportunities in multiple sectors and enable future private
• Through the Small and Medium Enterprise Relaunch
sector investment. This includes clearing transportation
Grant program, Alberta’s Government has committed up
bottlenecks and reducing congestion in key trade and
to $575 million in funding for organizations (businesses,
industrial corridors.
cooperatives and non-profits) that saw a revenue reduction
of at least 30 per cent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. • Conduct a third-party review of all government-owned and
leased real estate asset management processes to identify
• Deliver tools and programs to support investment and
potential cost savings, and revenue opportunities relating to
job creation and the recovery of Alberta’s economy, such
more efficient overall asset stock management.
as the Innovation Employment Grant and the Film and
Television Tax Credit. • Invest in construction and modernization of health care
facilities, including the completion of the Calgary Cancer
• Develop a long-term plan to review how property
Centre by 2023. This center will serve as a hub for cutting-
assessments are determined for industrial property,
edge cancer research, and will be an internationally
including wells and pipelines, to ensure that the valuations
recognized, state-of-the-art facility that will increase cancer
reflect current circumstances and do not place an undue
care capacity in southern Alberta.
burden on competitiveness. In the interim, a number
of property assessment and tax incentives are being • Invest $1.5 billion over three years toward new schools
implemented. and modernization projects across Alberta. Develop
and implement strategies and plans for maintaining and
• Implement a three-year property tax holiday for all new well
assessing the need for school capital projects.
and pipeline assets; eliminate the Well Drilling Equipment
Tax (from 2021 onward); maintain the shallow gas • Invest $244.5 million over seven years on irrigation
assessment reduction of 35 per cent over the next three expansion projects to ensure that Alberta’s irrigation
years; and provide additional depreciation adjustments systems are efficient and contribute to Alberta’s economic
for lower-producing wells. These initiatives will encourage growth and recovery.
new investment in the oil and gas sector and support the • Provide grant funding for rural utilities, including high-speed
continued viability of existing assets. internet, and increase the Rural Gas Grant to support rural
economies and rural utility planning.
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 15Priority two
Protecting livelihoods
Objective five Objective six
Making Alberta more dynamic, innovative and Standing up for Alberta’s natural resources
sustainable Alberta’s government will continue to push the federal
Alberta’s Government will streamline programs and use a government to publicly defend Canada’s energy sector and
smarter approach to innovation to modernize our economy, our energy sector workers. We will continue to call on the
create the best environment for businesses in Canada and federal government to press the United States to discuss
get Albertans back to work. energy supply and climate action. Canada and the United
States share a highly integrated energy system, including
Actions criss-crossing infrastructure such as pipelines and electricity
• Continue to implement the Technology Innovation and transmission systems. Our energy and climate goals must be
Emissions Reduction (TIER) system, to help industrial viewed in the context of that integrated system, and it is in
facilities reduce emissions and invest in clean technology. our mutual interest to develop an agreement that will enable
a path to export Alberta’s most valuable commodity while
• Deliver tools and programs to support investment and job
providing the United States with a source of reliable energy,
creation and the recovery of Alberta’s economy, such as
produced to the highest environmental standards.
the Alberta Enterprise Fund.
• Optimize the government’s investment in the technology Actions
sector to ensure it is focused on commercialization and job • Work closely with the world’s leading banks and investors
creation. to define and defend Alberta’s leadership on environmental,
• Adopt a smart approach to innovation and make Alberta social and governance (ESG) standards across all sectors,
competitive for global high-tech investment. and to outline major capital investment opportunities.
• Support economic growth, job creation and diversification • Administer the Indigenous Litigation Fund to support
by launching new Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program Indigenous Peoples’ voices in legal action that affects
streams to attract job-creating entrepreneurs and responsible resource development and advances Alberta’s
specialized skills and talent to support Alberta’s economy. interests.
• Increase opportunities for hands-on learning experiences in
apprenticeship, trades and vocational education.
• Support the development of the teaching workforce in
areas of demand and need.
• Improve access to childcare through initiatives that support
affordability, quality, safety, inclusion and parent choice,
enabling parents to participate fully in the labour market
workforce and supporting Alberta’s economic recovery.
16 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Indicators | Protecting livelihoods
EMPLOYMENT
Private sector employment
Objective seven Last actual: Employment in the private sector
A fair deal for Alberta declined by 6.5 percent in 2020.
The Fair Deal Panel consulted tens of thousands of Albertans
SELF EMPLOYMENT
through in-person town hall meetings, an online survey, and
Albertans self employed
stakeholder interviews to get input on how best to strengthen
Last actual: Self-employment increased by
the province’s economic position, give Alberta a stronger 0.6 percent in 2019.
voice within the Canadian federation, and increase the
province’s power over institutions and funding in areas of EMPLOYMENT RATE
provincial jurisdiction. The panel submitted its final report and
Proportion of the working age population
recommendations to government in May 2020. that is employed
Last actual: Alberta’s employment rate was
Actions 60.8 percent in 2020.
• Advocate for more equitable treatment for Alberta with the
federal government, including improvements to the Fiscal
Stabilization Program.
• Build coalitions with willing provinces and territories to
advance objectives that respect Alberta’s jurisdiction and
improve our prosperity.
• Consider outstanding recommendations of the Fair Deal INVESTMENT
Panel and take action, as appropriate, to confirm Alberta’s Non-residential investment in Alberta
place in the Canadian federation. Last actual: $14,051 per capita in 2018.
• Advocate for Alberta’s interests and protect provincial
Venture capital investment in Alberta
powers, which will contribute to an environment for job Last actual: $304 Million to the end of Quarter
creation. Alberta has already filed a reference with the Three in 2020.
Alberta Court of Appeal on the constitutionality of Bill
C-69 - An Act to enact the Impact Assessment Act and
the Canadian Energy Regulator Act and to amend the
Navigation Protection Act.
• Through the Alberta Community Partnership program,
provide funding support to municipalities to conduct
the Senate Election and Referendum Vote to ensure ALBERTA’S OIL SANDS
the priorities and needs of Albertans are adequately Supply share of global oil consumption
represented at the federal level. Democratizing the Senate Last actual: 3.1 per cent of global oil consumption
appointment process and proceeding with a referendum was supplied by Alberta’s oil sands in 2019.
on equalization are two of the recommendations of the Fair
Deal Panel.
ENERGY SECTOR INVESTMENT
Upstream energy sector investment
Last actual: $24 billion was invested in mining,
quarrying and oil and gas in 2019*(*preliminary result)
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 17Priority three
Fiscal accountability
Our objectives Objective one
Value for each tax dollar spent
In order to guide fiscal decision-making, government
has established three key fiscal anchors: keeping net Albertans expect their tax dollars to be spent wisely and
debt-to-GDP under 30 per cent, getting per capita spending responsibly, to ensure the long-term sustainability of
in-line with comparator provinces and, after the pandemic, government programs.
re-establishing a commitment to balance the budget. The
priority of this government remains focused on protecting Actions
lives and livelihoods during this pandemic, but we cannot
• Implement the recommendations of the MacKinnon Panel
ignore fiscal realities and the impacts that our decisions today
as appropriate – an independent blue-ribbon group of
will have on future generations. While it is no longer feasible to
experts that conducted a review of Alberta’s finances.
balance the budget by 2022-23, these anchors will help keep
us on the path to meeting our fiscal objectives. • Effectively manage spending on physician services,
remaining within budgeted amounts.
Alberta’s Government will continue to improve efficiencies in
• Collaborate with other provinces to reduce prescription
delivering government services while supporting the fiscal
drug costs and increase access to clinically effective and
anchor of bringing Alberta’s spending in line with comparator
cost-effective drug treatment options for Albertans.
provinces. The fiscal anchors will guide decision-making and
help ensure fiscal prudence, while government works toward • Work with independent providers to develop long-term
a revised schedule for balancing the budget. care and designated supportive living spaces in priority
communities, and modernize the continuing care system
1. Value for each tax dollar spent and its legislative framework to ensure care is more person-
centred and integrated.
2. Public sector compensation
• Modernize financial support systems provided by the
3. Enhanced reporting
Department of Community and Social Services to enhance
service delivery and promote Albertans’ participation in the
province’s economic recovery.
• Collaborate with post-secondary institutions, industry,
students and other stakeholders to finalize and implement
recommendations from the Alberta 2030: Building Skills for
Jobs strategy. This will deliver the high quality education,
skills and training needed to get Albertans back to work,
meet current and future labour market demands, and drive
innovation to make Alberta competitive in a 21st century
global economy.
18 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Objective two Actions
Public sector compensation • Successfully negotiate labour efficiencies with fair and
From health care workers to law enforcement personnel and competitive compensation to allow government to free up
teachers, Alberta’s public sector provides a variety of services resources that can be reinvested in health care, education,
to Albertans. The importance of the public sector has been economic recovery and growth initiatives.
highlighted by the critical part they have played in fighting the • Optimize the size of the public service and enable private
COVID-19 pandemic while putting their own lives at risk to sector delivery of services when it is more efficient to do so.
ensure the health, safety and future success of Alberta and
Albertans. • Reduce the footprint of government, especially
management and administration that may result in
Approximately half of the government’s operating expense unnecessary costs for Albertans in terms of time, money or
is related to compensation including Agencies, Boards and other resources.
Commissions such as school boards, universities, colleges • Bring per capita spending in line with the average of
and hospitals. As Albertans, we all have a role to play in our comparable provinces, specifically in health care, education
economic recovery and difficult, but necessary, decisions are and public sector compensation.
required to protect the high quality services that Albertans
rely on. • Work with physicians and the Alberta Medical Association
to manage spending growth and modernize physician
In addition to addressing compensation efficiencies, Alberta’s funding models. This will improve quality of patient care and
government is also looking to support a smaller, more efficient accountability for services rendered.
public sector, which will ensure Albertans receive a fair deal
for their tax payer contributions. Alberta’s government is
enabling private sector delivery of services when it is more
efficient to do so. As outlined in Budget 2019, the size of
Alberta’s public service is being reduced by about 7.7 per
cent over four years from 2019-20 to 2022-23.
Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 19Indicators | Fiscal accountability
Priority three
Fiscal accountability
Objective three
Enhanced reporting
Effective reporting of government program spending
GOVERNMENT SPENDING
and performance allows government to demonstrate the
effectiveness of budget spending in a fiscally responsible Fiscal accountability rating
Last actual: The Government of Alberta was rated
manner.
“B+” in 2020 by C.D. Howe Institute.
Actions
• Ensure government reporting meets the key principles of Provincial grants to publicly funded
objectivity and reliability, clarity and timeliness of reporting. universities and degree-granting colleges
Last actual: Provincial grants represented 46%
• Continuous improvement of business planning and of the total revenue for Alberta’s publicly funded
reporting to better integrate financial and non-financial universities and degree-granting colleges in 2018-
results by relating costs to the results achieved, and 19. This result was higher than British Columbia
(34%) and Ontario (25%).
explaining the links between spending and outcomes.
• Ensure an emphasis on performance measures, indicators
and targets to support accountability in annual reporting Health expenditure
on Government’s priorities, while driving change and Last actual: Operational expenditures forecast for
2020-21 are 1.2 per cent lower than the 2019-20
continuous improvement in program performance.
actual, excluding COVID-19 costs.
• Ensure adherence to standards of best practices in results
analysis in annual reporting to allow decision-makers
and the public to assess the efficacy and effectiveness of
government initiatives.
• Fully integrate risk management into the planning and
reporting process, ensuring that the identification and
mitigation of risk is considered by government in the
development and implementation of programs.
20 Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24Strategic plan | Government of Alberta 2021–24 21
You can also read
